IAI Appoints Shlomi Sudri to Head Missiles and Space Division
Israel Aerospace Industries has appointed retired Col. Shlomi Sudri as Senior Vice President and head of its Missiles and Space Group, effective December 1, 2026. Sudri brings over 30 years of experience in defense technology and strategic programs.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has announced the appointment of retired Col. Shlomi Sudri as Senior Vice President and General Manager of its Systems, Missiles, and Space Group. The appointment, recommended by IAI CEO Guy Bar Lev and approved by the Board of Directors chaired by Boaz Levy, will take effect on December 1, 2026.
Sudri brings over 30 years of managerial, business, and technological experience in leading strategic programs and complex defense systems across missile technology, air defense, and space exploration. He joined IAI in 2015 as Head of the Arrow and Missile Defense Directorate, and in 2020 was appointed Director of the Space Factory within the same division.
During his tenure, Sudri drove significant growth initiatives, expanded business operations in international markets, secured strategic projects, and substantially increased the company's order backlog and sales. Under his leadership, the Space Factory developed and manufactured advanced satellites alongside operational activities supporting the security establishment, the IDF, and other global clients.
Before joining IAI, Sudri served in senior positions within the Israel Ministry of Defense's Homa administration at DDR&D (MAFAT), playing a central role in developing Israel's multi-layered defense shield and earning multiple Israel Defense Prizes. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, both from the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology.
IAI's Systems, Missiles, and Space Group develops advanced offensive and defensive missile systems, including the Arrow and Barak air and missile defense systems. Serving as Israel's national space house, the division builds advanced communication and observation satellites, launch vehicles, and ground control systems.
"I congratulate Sudri on his appointment," said IAI Chairman Boaz Levy. "Sudri brings significant experience and proven capabilities, and I am confident he will continue to lead the division forward, strengthen its capabilities, and contribute to Israel's security and IAI's business growth."
IAI CEO Guy Bar Lev added: "The Missiles and Space Group stands at the forefront of Israel's defense and technological activity. Sudri's appointment reflects the strength of IAI's human capital and leadership pipeline, and I am certain his rich experience will drive continued technological, operational, and commercial achievements."
